Hello,
I recently broke one of my crowns. I wanted to get it replaced ASAP, so I opted for a same-day CEREC crown.
My new CEREC crown feels too thick and doesn’t fit right. Even after my dentist filed it down, it still isn’t fitting properly. None of my other crowns ever felt like this. I don’t think it’s going to get any better. I thought CEREC was the way to go, but now I’m regretting getting one. Is my crown salvageable? Or should I scrap it?
Thank you,
-Adrian, Tallahassee, Florida
Hi Adrian,
Thank you for your message. Unfortunately, it sounds like your dentist just wasn’t that comfortable using the CEREC software; if they had been, your problem should have been avoided. CEREC crowns are made using a high-tech machine. This machine’s software scans the tooth prior to milling the crown from ceramic. The result is a strong, long-lasting ceramic crown, so it’s disappointing to hear you had such a bad experience.
Even without using your previous crown or original tooth as a baseline, your dentist should have been able to properly guide the machine to create a crown contoured to your gums. If the crown doesn’t fit right at the gum line, food can get trapped underneath it, and that can lead to gum disease.
Crowns are designed to fit so seamlessly in your gums that you would not notice them. Ill-fitting crowns can cause you to bite your lip, cheeks, or tongue, especially while you sleep. Aside from being painful and annoying, this biting and chewing could lead to the growth of a tumor.
I’m glad you tried to take care of this problem, as it can become more serious. However, now that the crown is cemented in your mouth, it is likely too late to salvage it. Your best bet is to ask your dentist to remove the crown. If you want another CEREC crown, find a more experienced cosmetic dentist. Otherwise, have your dentist send the crown to a dental lab to be remade. A new, properly-fitting crown will feel so much better than what you have now.
This blog post is brought to you by Gilbert CEREC crown provider, Dr. Matthew Roper.